Seam sealers are a combination of form (how closely the sealer matches OEM) and function (its effectiveness at sealing the joint) that exemplifies your commitment to excellence in collision repair. 3M provides these standard operating procedures (SOPs) for general seam sealer application to help you achieve a high-quality seam sealer repair that lasts. These clear, step-by-step SOPs include best practices for every critical part of seam sealer application, including surface preparation such as dressing welds and proper scuffing as well as cleaning and best practices for applying the sealer itself.

Step 2: Clean

Use a dedicated clean cloth or paper towel to clean the seam sealer repair area. 3M recommends cleaning with an all-purpose cleaner and degreaser, followed by a silicone-free wax and grease remover to eliminate any additional contaminants.

DO NOT spray or saturate the seams with any cleaner, as any remaining material that migrates into the seam may compromise your seam sealer application.

Step 3: Apply Tight Coat

If required, mask the area as required to recreate OEM appearance. Apply a thin bead of the appropriate seam sealer to the bare metal or primer-coated joint. Carefully tool the sealer into the joint.

This seam sealer tight coat ensures that you seal the seam properly before you begin work to create the desired appearance.

Step 4: Apply Seam Sealer

Apply seam sealer over the prepared seam. Tool to re-create the appearance of the original seam.

Immediately remove masking tape, and tool as needed until you have achieved the desired sealer shape and appearance. Allow seam sealer to cure following 3M recommendations prior to topcoating. Follow paint company recommendations for application of primer and topcoats.

Request a General Seam Sealer Product Demonstration

Our sales team is happy to show you how any of our products can help your direct-to-metal or non-direct-to-metal seam sealer application at any point in the process. Whether you feel a certain part of your seam sealer application process needs improvement or you just need a quick refresher, we’re here to help. To request your demo, simply click to the right.

There are of course many factors and variables that can affect an individual repair, so the technician and repair facility need to evaluate each specific application and repair process, including relevant vehicle, part and OEM guidelines, and determine what is appropriate for that repair.